The striking color pattern, a mix of black, white, and gray, is caused by a previously unknown genetic mutation. It defies long-standing assumptions and offers new insights into how cat coats are formed.
This salmiak coloration, often called “salty liquorice” due to its resemblance to a popular Finnish snack, was first spotted in 2007. However, it wasn’t until 2019 that a team of cat experts, led by geneticist Heidi Anderson, began investigating the cause of this unusual fur pattern.
They have since discovered that the unique coat is not the result of the commonly known dilution gene, but rather a missing piece of DNA near the KIT gene, which is associated with white patterns in animal fur.
Uncovering the Mystery
The salmiak fur was first observed in 2007, but the cat community didn’t fully understand what made it so distinct. Initially, researchers believed it was just an unusual expression of the dilution gene. Cats’ fur colors generally come from combinations of black and orange, or variants of those colors, sometimes altered by the dilution gene, which lightens them. Salmiak’s striking salt-and-pepper mix led experts to think it was a novel version of the dilution gene expressing itself.
However, as they dug deeper into the genetic makeup of these cats, the researchers were unable to find any of the typical genetic variations associated with the dilution gene. It was only after analyzing the genomes of the cats that the missing piece of DNA near the KIT gene was identified as the cause. This was a breakthrough moment. “There was a huge chunk of sequence missing downstream from the KIT gene,” Anderson told New Scientist, describing the importance of this discovery.
The team tested 181 cats to confirm their findings and ultimately determined that the missing sequence was indeed the cause of the salmiak coat. The results were published in Animal Genetics.
Relevance for Cat Breeding
The discovery of the salmiak color is not just an exciting find for researchers; it also has significant implications for breeders. As Anderson explained in a blog post, understanding this genetic mutation enhances our knowledge of how feline coat colors work and could help breeders intentionally preserve this distinctive pattern.
Since the mutation is recessive, it means both parents must carry and pass down the gene for a kitten to express the salmiak coat. This could make breeding these cats a bit more challenging, but also more rewarding for those who seek to maintain the trait in future generations.
For cat lovers, particularly in Finland where the color is more commonly found, this discovery adds a fascinating layer to the world of feline genetics. The salmiak pattern is now officially recognized and, hopefully, will continue to captivate enthusiasts for years to come. Anderson also noted that this discovery enriches the broader understanding of animal genetics, demonstrating how small genetic variations can create unique traits in living creatures.
A Lasting Fascination
The salmiak color has long captured the fascination of cat lovers, both for its beauty and rarity. It is a reminder that even well-known creatures like cats still hold secrets in their genetic code, waiting to be uncovered.
The excitement surrounding this discovery underscores the broader importance of continuing to explore and understand animal genetics. As Anderson said, “These coats have aroused a lot of admiration for years,” and the breakthrough in understanding their genetic cause will only increase the appreciation for these beautiful felines.